MARKED and unmarked police vehicles and roadside checks will be used across Craven this month to hunt out potential drink and drug drivers.

North Yorkshire Police says it will be increasing the number of proactive drink and drug driving patrols this month, and is also appealing to people to call 999 if they suspect someone of driving while under the influence.

Using marked and unmarked vehicles and a range of specialist tactics, officers hope to intervene and bring drink and drug drivers to justice before they have a chance to bring misery on families, say officers.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: "Remember, it isn’t just about having an alcoholic drink or taking drugs and getting straight into the car – you can also be over the limit or under the influence the morning after. The patrols will be taking place around the clock and static patrols where we set up a roadside check will be in place on various key routes across the county.

"We’re also encouraging members of the public to report drink and drug drivers, if you suspect someone then dial 999 when it is safe to do so with information including their vehicle, registration number and current location."

Superintendent Andrew Berriman from North Yorkshire Police Specialist Operations Unit added: “Every year, police officers have to deliver the devastating news to people that their loved one has been killed in a collision relating to drink or drugs.

“We will be out in force through December and make no apology for doing all that we can to take offenders who are over the drink drive limit or under the influence of drugs off North Yorkshire’s roads. The overwhelming majority of law-abiding motorists are appalled at drink and drug driving and will back the action taken against a small minority to make our roads safer.”